Acamprol (acamprosate calcium) is a prescription medication specifically developed to support the maintenance of abstinence in alcohol-dependent patients who have achieved initial detoxification. As a synthetic compound with structural similarity to gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), it modulates glutamatergic neurotransmission, addressing the neuroadaptations that perpetuate alcohol dependence. Clinical evidence demonstrates its efficacy in reducing relapse rates when used as part of a comprehensive treatment program that includes psychosocial support. The medication is particularly valuable for patients seeking to reestablish normal neurological function during early recovery.

Features

• Delayed-release tablet formulation containing 333 mg acamprosate calcium
• Synthetic compound with structural similarity to endogenous neurotransmitters
• Triple action on GABAergic and glutamatergic systems
• Renal excretion without hepatic metabolism
• Temperature-stable formulation with consistent dissolution profile
• Child-resistant packaging compliant with international safety standards

Benefits

• Reduces craving intensity by normalizing disrupted neurochemical balance
• Decreases relapse frequency in maintained abstinence periods
• Supports cognitive recovery by stabilizing excitatory neurotransmission
• Demonstrates favorable safety profile with minimal abuse potential
• Compatible with comprehensive addiction treatment protocols
• Provides continuous neurochemical modulation with consistent dosing

Common use

Acamprol is indicated for the maintenance of abstinence in alcohol-dependent patients in combination with psychosocial support. The medication is typically initiated after the completion of alcohol detoxification, when patients have achieved initial abstinence. Treatment is most effective when integrated into a comprehensive management program that includes counseling, behavioral therapy, and support group participation. The therapeutic approach addresses both the biological and psychological components of alcohol dependence, with Acamprol specifically targeting the neurochemical imbalances that contribute to craving and relapse vulnerability.

Dosage and direction

The recommended dosage of Acamprol is 666 mg (two 333 mg tablets) taken three times daily. Patients with moderate renal impairment (creatinine clearance 30-50 mL/min) require a reduced dosage of 333 mg three times daily. The tablets should be swallowed whole with water and may be taken with or without food, though consistent administration with meals may improve gastrointestinal tolerance. Treatment should be initiated as soon as possible after abstinence is achieved and maintained throughout the period of alcohol abstinence, even if occasional slips occur. The duration of treatment should be individualized based on patient response and typically continues for at least one year.

Precautions

Renal function should be assessed before initiating treatment and periodically during therapy, particularly in elderly patients or those with conditions that may affect renal function. Patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance ≤30 mL/min) should not use Acamprol. Depression and suicidal ideation have been reported in patients with alcohol dependence and may persist during treatment; patients should be monitored for the emergence or worsening of depression. The medication does not eliminate or diminish withdrawal symptoms and should not be used for alcohol detoxification. Patients should be advised that Acamprol may cause dizziness and should exercise caution when operating machinery or driving.

Contraindications

Acamprol is contraindicated in patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance ≤30 mL/min). The medication is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to acamprosate calcium or any components of the formulation. It should not be used during pregnancy unless clearly necessary, as adequate human data are not available. Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment due to insufficient information regarding excretion in human milk. The medication is not indicated for patients who have not achieved abstinence prior to treatment initiation.

Possible side effects

The most commonly reported adverse reactions include diarrhea (occurring in approximately 10-15% of patients), nausea, abdominal pain, and pruritus. These gastrointestinal effects are typically mild to moderate in intensity and often diminish with continued treatment. Less frequent side effects may include headache, dizziness, insomnia, anxiety, and fatigue. Rash and fluctuations in libido have been reported in some patients. Most adverse events occur during the initial treatment period and decrease in frequency with continued therapy. Serious side effects are rare but may include severe allergic reactions, clinical depression, or suicidal ideation.

Drug interaction

Acamprol does not undergo hepatic metabolism and demonstrates low plasma protein binding, resulting in minimal pharmacokinetic interactions. However, potential pharmacodynamic interactions may occur with other centrally acting agents. Concurrent use with naltrexone may enhance treatment efficacy for alcohol dependence without significant interaction concerns. The medication does not appear to interact with disulfiram. While no clinically significant interactions with antidepressants or anxiolytics have been established, careful monitoring is recommended when combining with other psychoactive medications. Acamprol does not affect the metabolism of alcohol and will not produce disulfiram-like reactions when alcohol is consumed.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, patients should take it as soon as remembered unless it is nearly time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, the missed dose should be skipped, and the regular dosing schedule resumed. Patients should not double the dose to make up for a missed administration. Consistent adherence to the three-times-daily regimen is important for maintaining stable plasma concentrations and optimal therapeutic effect. Healthcare providers should educate patients about the importance of regular dosing and strategies to maintain adherence throughout the treatment period.

Overdose

Experience with Acamprol overdose is limited. In reported cases of intentional overdose, symptoms have included gastrointestinal distress (diarrhea, nausea) and dizziness. No fatal outcomes have been reported with overdoses up to 56 grams. There is no specific antidote for acamprosate overdose. Management should include symptomatic and supportive care, with particular attention to electrolyte balance and hydration status due to the potential for diarrhea. Gastric lavage may be considered if performed soon after ingestion. Hemodialysis may be effective in removing acamprosate due to its low molecular weight and minimal protein binding.

Storage

Acamprol tablets should be stored at room temperature (15-30°C or 59-86°F) in their original container, protected from moisture and light. The medication should be kept out of reach of children and pets. Unused medication should be properly disposed of in accordance with local regulations, not flushed down toilets or drainage systems. Tablets should not be used beyond the expiration date printed on the packaging. The blister packs provide protection against moisture and should not be transferred to other containers.

Disclaimer

This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Acamprol is a prescription medication that should be used only under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Treatment decisions should be based on individual patient assessment and professional medical judgment. Patients should consult their healthcare provider for complete prescribing information and personalized medical advice. The efficacy and safety information presented is based on clinical trial data and post-marketing experience, but individual responses may vary.

Reviews

Clinical studies demonstrate that Acamprol significantly improves abstinence rates compared to placebo, with number-needed-to-treat values of approximately 8-9 for maintaining continuous abstinence. Meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials show consistent benefit across diverse patient populations, with effect sizes maintained through 12 months of treatment. Patient-reported outcomes indicate reduced craving intensity and improved quality of life measures. The medication receives positive evaluations from addiction specialists for its specific mechanism of action and favorable side effect profile. Long-term follow-up studies suggest that treatment benefits may persist beyond the active treatment period when integrated with comprehensive rehabilitation programs.